It is not acceptable that a black woman, who was simply dropping off a relative at Belfast City Airport, could be stopped by an immigration officer while leaving and have her details checked because she allegedly `looked foreign.'
The woman, who has lived either in England or Northern Ireland for the last 16 years and holds a UK passport, said she was distressed by the incident, which took place in front of her children.
She was supported by the Equality Commission when she took a case against the Home Office, which, as we reported yesterday, was settled out of court for £2,000, with no admission of liability.
It is very difficult to believe that a white person would be publicly challenged in similar circumstances and it is essential that the authorities ensure firm steps are taken to prevent any repetition of the disturbing episode.
